The time has come and the lodge is abuzz with frenzied activity in final preparations. The time has come!
Another request for all you landlubbers out there, I'm rowing to raise funds for several causes and appreciate anything you can offer.
Here for details
https://sites.google.com/site/friendsofdrowing/alumni/belvia
Updates and tracking on the website
www.woodvale-works.com
See you on the other side!
Have a wonderful day!
Jonathan
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Shaved and ready to go!!
Tidal stream information just in!!! We'll ride the outgoing tide tomorrow at 12 noon. High tide at 11:54 am and favorable tidal streams thereafter.
And in other events I had my head shaved for the first time in 28 years in celebration of this momentous occasion!
See.....
And Britannia III nearly ready to go...
Departure Jan 31st 12 noon! Daily updates from the website http://www.woodvale-works.com/
See you on the other side!!
Cheers,
Jonathan
And in other events I had my head shaved for the first time in 28 years in celebration of this momentous occasion!
See.....
And Britannia III nearly ready to go...
Departure Jan 31st 12 noon! Daily updates from the website http://www.woodvale-works.com/
See you on the other side!!
Cheers,
Jonathan
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Departure date fixed!!! Technical Specs too!!
The time has come. We are set to shove off Monday January 31st at 8 am GMT!!!
I´ve had a few inquiries about the technical aspects of the boat and the crossing so here is some information for those interested...
We've got 8 rowing stations and are equipped with 16 oars, 8 to row with and 8 spares. We could break all of them but hopefully no more than 8 to remain efficient in the water. The oars are 385 cm for the most part with a few variations - stroke oars are loaded slightly lighter/shorter given that the boat was designed with 6 sweep rowing stations and later refit with 8 stations, squeezing in an additional 2 stations, so space/reach is a bit of an issue (I won't be taking too many full reach strokes).
The boat fully loaded is just under 3000 kilos including rowers. The boat alone weighs just 600 kilos. Loading has the buttons (the segment up against the oarlocks) about 2/3 the way up the sleeves to the handles but is a completely different dynamic from flat water racing given the weight of the boat. Doesn't feel too heavy, just a slower pull. The trick is to maintain momentum without checking the boat.
In order to break the record we are going to have to cover 2598 nautical miles on a Great Circle route in under 33 days or 78.7 mi/day or around 3.28 knots/24h/7days for 33 days. For reference this is about 1/4 the speed of traditional racing shells. Top reported speed when briefly surfing the face of a 20 ft wave I'm told was 17.5 knots!!!
Conditions are lining up with a projected tailwind of 25/30 knots for the first several days until we reach the cross-Atlantic current which should be good for at least a knot of speed. Tail wind and following seas of 35 ft @ 9 second intervals and we are set up to put a lot of pressure on the standing record!!
And in other oddities of nature pigeons by the hundreds were swooping around the hillside in front of the hostel this afternoon.
The countdown is on!!
Cheers,
J
I´ve had a few inquiries about the technical aspects of the boat and the crossing so here is some information for those interested...
We've got 8 rowing stations and are equipped with 16 oars, 8 to row with and 8 spares. We could break all of them but hopefully no more than 8 to remain efficient in the water. The oars are 385 cm for the most part with a few variations - stroke oars are loaded slightly lighter/shorter given that the boat was designed with 6 sweep rowing stations and later refit with 8 stations, squeezing in an additional 2 stations, so space/reach is a bit of an issue (I won't be taking too many full reach strokes).
The boat fully loaded is just under 3000 kilos including rowers. The boat alone weighs just 600 kilos. Loading has the buttons (the segment up against the oarlocks) about 2/3 the way up the sleeves to the handles but is a completely different dynamic from flat water racing given the weight of the boat. Doesn't feel too heavy, just a slower pull. The trick is to maintain momentum without checking the boat.
In order to break the record we are going to have to cover 2598 nautical miles on a Great Circle route in under 33 days or 78.7 mi/day or around 3.28 knots/24h/7days for 33 days. For reference this is about 1/4 the speed of traditional racing shells. Top reported speed when briefly surfing the face of a 20 ft wave I'm told was 17.5 knots!!!
Conditions are lining up with a projected tailwind of 25/30 knots for the first several days until we reach the cross-Atlantic current which should be good for at least a knot of speed. Tail wind and following seas of 35 ft @ 9 second intervals and we are set up to put a lot of pressure on the standing record!!
And in other oddities of nature pigeons by the hundreds were swooping around the hillside in front of the hostel this afternoon.
The countdown is on!!
Cheers,
J
Thursday, January 27, 2011
New videos posted of crew practice
New video footage posted on the site - http://www.woodvale-works.com/videos/
I have not stopped eating in the past 3 days doing my best to put on weight. Bread, butter, Nutella, marmelade, ice cream, cheese, ham, steak, more ice cream, butter, avocado, pasta salad, pasta, garlic bread, bruscetta, eat, eat, eat! Will have to take a before and after comparison photo.
Weather still looking ideal for a Sunday departure. Expecting 25 knots winds out of the Northeast and 35 ft swell!!!
Yippee!!
Jonathan
I have not stopped eating in the past 3 days doing my best to put on weight. Bread, butter, Nutella, marmelade, ice cream, cheese, ham, steak, more ice cream, butter, avocado, pasta salad, pasta, garlic bread, bruscetta, eat, eat, eat! Will have to take a before and after comparison photo.
Weather still looking ideal for a Sunday departure. Expecting 25 knots winds out of the Northeast and 35 ft swell!!!
Yippee!!
Jonathan
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Knight of the Table Round
May Common Sense ne'er quell our love for high hearted adventurings, nor dull expediency prevent our doing brave, splendid, foolish deeds. May we ever serve romance as we ride errant to and fro about a sunlit world. If we be not always wise, God send that we at least be admirable.
- Prince Valiant, Knight of the Table Round, Court of the Good King Arthur
submitted by Phil Kerr D'92, bowman of the Great 8, for the Atlantic Allum Cup 2011
Thanks Phil, to the Great 8, and Dartmouth Rowing . You'll all be with me in the depth of night and at the dawn hour.
Jonathan
- Prince Valiant, Knight of the Table Round, Court of the Good King Arthur
submitted by Phil Kerr D'92, bowman of the Great 8, for the Atlantic Allum Cup 2011
Thanks Phil, to the Great 8, and Dartmouth Rowing . You'll all be with me in the depth of night and at the dawn hour.
Jonathan
Crew behind the scenes - Thank you!
I'd like to take a moment to note my appreciation for those working tirelessly behind the scenes to help make the fundraising effort such a success, and we've only just begun! Alex Stein and Fred Malloy have gone above and beyond to help get the mechanics of the fundraising site up and running. Thank you both!
I am inspired. We've only been at it a few days and you've already donated $925!! Truly fabulous! Thank you all for your generous giving!
Jonathan
I am inspired. We've only been at it a few days and you've already donated $925!! Truly fabulous! Thank you all for your generous giving!
Jonathan
Peurto de Mogan - Base of Operations
Another sunny day here blowing 15 knots+ with a northerly swell. Below are a couple of shots from our hostel Volver Hostel (bunk style shared accomodation for 7.50 Euros/night) up on the hill. The architecture here is very bohemian with most lodgings just built into the hillside with winding access ruelles winding their way up through the addresses.
As you can see the weather changes considerably over the course of a couple of days
This morning
Weather reports still shows a fantastic high pressure system coming our way to establish the traditional trade winds, east to west from Africa, that should last 3-5 weeks! These wind patterns are like we learned about in 3rd grade Social Studies. Very cool to be travelling the same trade winds from hundreds of years ago that I read about as a child.
Certainly back in my element, on the high seas subject to mother natures whim. Each day is an adventure. Awakens in me suspicions that I may have been a Viking in a former life.
Feasted on all you can eat ribs last night and have been eating non-stop in an effort to put on as much weight as I can prior to shoving off. Ice cream!!!!
Time for a mid-morning snack and a quick nap!
Jonathan
As you can see the weather changes considerably over the course of a couple of days
Yesterday
This morning
Weather reports still shows a fantastic high pressure system coming our way to establish the traditional trade winds, east to west from Africa, that should last 3-5 weeks! These wind patterns are like we learned about in 3rd grade Social Studies. Very cool to be travelling the same trade winds from hundreds of years ago that I read about as a child.
Certainly back in my element, on the high seas subject to mother natures whim. Each day is an adventure. Awakens in me suspicions that I may have been a Viking in a former life.
Feasted on all you can eat ribs last night and have been eating non-stop in an effort to put on as much weight as I can prior to shoving off. Ice cream!!!!
Time for a mid-morning snack and a quick nap!
Jonathan
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Pull like Goddamn!! - Captain Ahab - Moby Dick
"Pull like Goddamn!!" and so I did and I broke the handle clean off the oar!!
(I believe it was Captain Ahab...)
For the first time in my life, I broke an oar!! Snapped it clean off where wood meets fiberglass. ARGHHH!!!! Man to Sea!
Great drill to change out broken gear underway in challenging conditions with a swell on.
Fantastic day on the water this morning! All crew geared up and headed out for two hours all conditions; following seas, quartering winds, on the nose, crew changeover.
Here is a shot of the 40 ft. carbon fiber craft that is going to carry our 14 strong crew across the Atlantic.
Another torrential downpour though this time underway!! Wahoo!! What a glorious feeling, heavens open up and douse us as our small ship is tossed about on confused seas. Alive!!!!
Weather delay - Record Breaking conditions loom!! Our departure date has now been pushed to Sunday Jan 30th in anticipation of an enorous high pressure system working its way towards us and setting up for ideal conditions to shatter the world record. If forecast continues as predicted we'll be looking at riding the tidal streams out of Peurto de Mogan sometime on Sunday with a following sea of 3 meters at 9 second intervals and 20 knots out of the northeast to push us southwest direct into the trades and cross-Atlantic current!! Fingers crossed!!
Big low rolled in after our practice on the water this morning and filled the harbour with some serious swell. 4 riggers got all stove up, 3 port and one starboard, on the neighboring boats and an emergency call came out for us to move our craft to a more secure and sheltered mooring. Crew sprang into action all hands on deck!! Quick manouver to shuttle Britannia III across the harbour out of the the reach and swell. Further reparations in order in the morning coincide with the arrival of our supply vehicle. We just need to get to the starting line.
The crew is working as one to shore up the integrity of our ship. Also reviewing rowing technique to ensure that we are getting every bit of efficiency out of our efforts.
Unrowable conditions for the next two days will allow us to take the necessary time to make sure the equipment is up to snuff.
Chomping at the bit and ready to row!
Time for sleep!
Jonathan
(I believe it was Captain Ahab...)
For the first time in my life, I broke an oar!! Snapped it clean off where wood meets fiberglass. ARGHHH!!!! Man to Sea!
Great drill to change out broken gear underway in challenging conditions with a swell on.
Fantastic day on the water this morning! All crew geared up and headed out for two hours all conditions; following seas, quartering winds, on the nose, crew changeover.
Here is a shot of the 40 ft. carbon fiber craft that is going to carry our 14 strong crew across the Atlantic.
Another torrential downpour though this time underway!! Wahoo!! What a glorious feeling, heavens open up and douse us as our small ship is tossed about on confused seas. Alive!!!!
Weather delay - Record Breaking conditions loom!! Our departure date has now been pushed to Sunday Jan 30th in anticipation of an enorous high pressure system working its way towards us and setting up for ideal conditions to shatter the world record. If forecast continues as predicted we'll be looking at riding the tidal streams out of Peurto de Mogan sometime on Sunday with a following sea of 3 meters at 9 second intervals and 20 knots out of the northeast to push us southwest direct into the trades and cross-Atlantic current!! Fingers crossed!!
Big low rolled in after our practice on the water this morning and filled the harbour with some serious swell. 4 riggers got all stove up, 3 port and one starboard, on the neighboring boats and an emergency call came out for us to move our craft to a more secure and sheltered mooring. Crew sprang into action all hands on deck!! Quick manouver to shuttle Britannia III across the harbour out of the the reach and swell. Further reparations in order in the morning coincide with the arrival of our supply vehicle. We just need to get to the starting line.
The crew is working as one to shore up the integrity of our ship. Also reviewing rowing technique to ensure that we are getting every bit of efficiency out of our efforts.
Unrowable conditions for the next two days will allow us to take the necessary time to make sure the equipment is up to snuff.
Chomping at the bit and ready to row!
Time for sleep!
Jonathan
Row for a Cause: Updated Fundraising Page
Hi All,
Check out Jon's fundraising page. We've moved from active.com to this page so that Jon can easily allot the funds between the three organizations via PayPal. All proceeds previously donated via active.com will still be applied appropriately.
The donation tracker accounts for all donations via active.com and paypal to date. Updates to the tracker may take a few hours.
Thanks for your support!
Friends of Dartmouth Rowing
Row for a Cause - donations sought (updated link)
Good morning All,
Calm morning after a torrential downpour last evening forcing me to think whether I have appropriate gear to row for 4 hours under a heavy rain. Perhaps. We'll soon find out.
We're just about to set off for a practice row this morning to ensure that all is in order prior to shoving off. Last minute repairs and provisioning are keeping us busy. One of the dagger boards was shorn clean off during practice 2 days ago and a replacement is in the making, this time out of carbon fiber, not fiberglass and plywood.
There is currently some stiff comptetion out there on the Atlantic underway but we've got a strong crew and great morale.
In the meantime I am looking to raise funds for a number of charities as well as offset some expenses. If you've got a bit of spare change and are keen on any of the causes any and all donations are greatly appreciated.
Visit the following link for more information:
https://sites.google.com/site/friendsofdrowing/belvia
Have a wonderful day wherever you are on this globe!
Cheers,
Jonathan
Calm morning after a torrential downpour last evening forcing me to think whether I have appropriate gear to row for 4 hours under a heavy rain. Perhaps. We'll soon find out.
We're just about to set off for a practice row this morning to ensure that all is in order prior to shoving off. Last minute repairs and provisioning are keeping us busy. One of the dagger boards was shorn clean off during practice 2 days ago and a replacement is in the making, this time out of carbon fiber, not fiberglass and plywood.
There is currently some stiff comptetion out there on the Atlantic underway but we've got a strong crew and great morale.
In the meantime I am looking to raise funds for a number of charities as well as offset some expenses. If you've got a bit of spare change and are keen on any of the causes any and all donations are greatly appreciated.
Visit the following link for more information:
https://sites.google.com/site/friendsofdrowing/belvia
Have a wonderful day wherever you are on this globe!
Cheers,
Jonathan
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Officially crew of the Britannia III
I arrived in Gran Canaria last evening at 6pm after the 4008 mile aerial passage to Gatwick, a 4 hour layover and then another 4 hour flight due south to Las Palmas just off the Moroccan border. Captain Simon and First Mate Roger picked me up from the airport and we became acquianted via spirited banter on the hour ride south to Porto Mogan.
Quick introductions to the crew and an all-you-can-eat buffet at a good/bad chinese restaurant and I feel comfortable, fed, and sleepy. I am doing my best to front load and put on some wieght prior to departure given that the food stores allow for 6000 calories/day and wary that I may be burning closer to 10,000. Projections are that I may lose up to 2 stone - that´s 28 lbs that I don't really have to lose, 10 maybe, but 28!!!
Arose this morning to unfavorable wind conditions blowing out of the west, the exact opposite of the direction in which we need to make headway. We've got two low pressure systems hovering about in the place of normal highs with trades out of the east.
In any case, we set out on the water this afternoon to fit personal kit on board, rotate through shifts and prepare a meal as practice for the epic journey that lies ahead.
3 new blisters appeared as expected from hands on wooden-handled dreissigacker oars. Today was my first effort on port side for more than a few strokes in my life and went as well as can be expected. Plan is switch up port and starboard regularly to balance things out.
Official welcome posted on the website http://www.woodvale-works.com/news/article/15/lost-and-found-
although I am a Registered Maine Guide, Marine Guide is just as fitting.
All are welcome to leave your own words of encouragement on the website - the streaming banner at the top of the page.
More sea trials tomorrow to work out the kinks and for the crew to become familiar with operations at sea. I am playing catch-up somewhat given that the rest of the crew has been on site for several weeks.
Hoping to post a pic shortly taken of the boat from high this afternoon.
It is apparent that 14 people living aboard a 40ft carbon fiber hulled ocean rowing shell is going to be spartan accomodations to say the least.
At present, next window may be on Thursday.
More tomorrow!
Cheers,
Jonathan
Quick introductions to the crew and an all-you-can-eat buffet at a good/bad chinese restaurant and I feel comfortable, fed, and sleepy. I am doing my best to front load and put on some wieght prior to departure given that the food stores allow for 6000 calories/day and wary that I may be burning closer to 10,000. Projections are that I may lose up to 2 stone - that´s 28 lbs that I don't really have to lose, 10 maybe, but 28!!!
Arose this morning to unfavorable wind conditions blowing out of the west, the exact opposite of the direction in which we need to make headway. We've got two low pressure systems hovering about in the place of normal highs with trades out of the east.
In any case, we set out on the water this afternoon to fit personal kit on board, rotate through shifts and prepare a meal as practice for the epic journey that lies ahead.
3 new blisters appeared as expected from hands on wooden-handled dreissigacker oars. Today was my first effort on port side for more than a few strokes in my life and went as well as can be expected. Plan is switch up port and starboard regularly to balance things out.
Official welcome posted on the website http://www.woodvale-works.com/news/article/15/lost-and-found-
although I am a Registered Maine Guide, Marine Guide is just as fitting.
All are welcome to leave your own words of encouragement on the website - the streaming banner at the top of the page.
More sea trials tomorrow to work out the kinks and for the crew to become familiar with operations at sea. I am playing catch-up somewhat given that the rest of the crew has been on site for several weeks.
Hoping to post a pic shortly taken of the boat from high this afternoon.
It is apparent that 14 people living aboard a 40ft carbon fiber hulled ocean rowing shell is going to be spartan accomodations to say the least.
At present, next window may be on Thursday.
More tomorrow!
Cheers,
Jonathan
Friday, January 21, 2011
Smite the sounding furrows
From my bother in oars, Ski
Inspiration for the task at hand
Ski's old favorite "Ulysses" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson:
In case you want to read (or re-read) the full poem, here's a link.
Thanks Ski!
The above inspired the following
Cast off, shove away,
Unknown shores beckon.
N'er too late.
Dream, craft fate.
JDPaine
Inspiration for the task at hand
Ski's old favorite "Ulysses" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson:
Come, my friends,
'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off; and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows . . . .
'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off; and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows . . . .
In case you want to read (or re-read) the full poem, here's a link.
Thanks Ski!
The above inspired the following
Cast off, shove away,
Unknown shores beckon.
N'er too late.
Dream, craft fate.
JDPaine
Adventure
I am drawn to the sea and adventure. It courses through me, it is who I am.
I recently compiled a "Best of..." photo album of our crossing in December 2010 aboard "Eight Bells" from Bermuda to Nevis Island in the Caribbean.
Click on the following link for a photo essay of the journey.
Adventure - Bermuda to Caribbean
Enjoy!
Jonathan
I recently compiled a "Best of..." photo album of our crossing in December 2010 aboard "Eight Bells" from Bermuda to Nevis Island in the Caribbean.
Click on the following link for a photo essay of the journey.
Adventure - Bermuda to Caribbean
Enjoy!
Jonathan
Dedication to my daughters Isabel and Olivia - Strength of Spirit
The eve of a great journey looms...
The adventure I embark upon draws near...
I find my myself drawn to, and rushing toward, an expedition to explore the abyss and expanse of the open ocean and the depth of my spirit along with 13 other souls, each seeking their own discovery.
Your words, great tribe, lift me, encourage me, warm my heart and steady my resolve. It is because of you, my family, dear friends, brothers in oars, that I find the strength and courage to look within and draw upon the inexhaustible source of all that we do, and achieve, across joy and pain; the human spirit. I am moved by each of you and your spirit I carry with me in the great flow.
I am calm, I am scared, I am excited and alive. The unknown unfolds beore me and I greet boundless possibility with arms flung wide.
Each of you have helped me to remember what it is to live, to reach within, to reach out, to lean upon and connect. I weave myself into a community of love and compassion. My heart is full.
Spirit alive and pulsing, I am connected through space and time.
The flesh born of me, nascent in body and spirit, grows. Isabel Mika and Olivia Karin, my beautiful daughters, you live within me. I long for the moment of our reunion, but know that I carry you with me each moment of my being. I wish for you happiness and joy and know one day we shall revel in these together. My dear girls, I dedicate this journey of spirit, to each and both of you. With the love of my soul, I love you. - Daddy
JD Paine
Antigua WI
Jan 21, 2011
The adventure I embark upon draws near...
I find my myself drawn to, and rushing toward, an expedition to explore the abyss and expanse of the open ocean and the depth of my spirit along with 13 other souls, each seeking their own discovery.
Your words, great tribe, lift me, encourage me, warm my heart and steady my resolve. It is because of you, my family, dear friends, brothers in oars, that I find the strength and courage to look within and draw upon the inexhaustible source of all that we do, and achieve, across joy and pain; the human spirit. I am moved by each of you and your spirit I carry with me in the great flow.
I am calm, I am scared, I am excited and alive. The unknown unfolds beore me and I greet boundless possibility with arms flung wide.
Each of you have helped me to remember what it is to live, to reach within, to reach out, to lean upon and connect. I weave myself into a community of love and compassion. My heart is full.
Spirit alive and pulsing, I am connected through space and time.
The flesh born of me, nascent in body and spirit, grows. Isabel Mika and Olivia Karin, my beautiful daughters, you live within me. I long for the moment of our reunion, but know that I carry you with me each moment of my being. I wish for you happiness and joy and know one day we shall revel in these together. My dear girls, I dedicate this journey of spirit, to each and both of you. With the love of my soul, I love you. - Daddy
JD Paine
Antigua WI
Jan 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Woodvale Challenge - Row across the Atlantic
Hiya All,
A quick update. One of my rowing brethren contacted me yesterday with an opportunity of a lifetime and I am pleased tosay that I have accepted the challenge, the Woodvale Challenge! There was a weather delay and one of the rowers had to drop out and they were seeking a replacement - that's me!! This is going to be a world record attempt to row across the Atlantic from Las Palmas in the Canary Islands to Barbados in the Caribbean. It has all come together in less than 24 hours and I fly out tomorrow eve via Gatwick on my way to join the team at the launch point in Las Palmas just off the Moroccan coast. You can follow the crossing via the website http://www.woodvale-challenge.com/ and more specifically on this challenge http://www.woodvale-works.com/
I will be doing my best to post while underway when possible.
Target is to depart this Sunday Jan 23rd for the 2550 mile journey which is expected to take around 30 days. The adventure continues!!! Watch this space!
On another note, I finished the theory part of my YachtMaster course today and the instructor was kind enough to allow me to delay the on-the-water practicum until after my return in just over a month (Thanks Phil!).
So much to do and so little time!
Over and out!
Paine
A quick update. One of my rowing brethren contacted me yesterday with an opportunity of a lifetime and I am pleased tosay that I have accepted the challenge, the Woodvale Challenge! There was a weather delay and one of the rowers had to drop out and they were seeking a replacement - that's me!! This is going to be a world record attempt to row across the Atlantic from Las Palmas in the Canary Islands to Barbados in the Caribbean. It has all come together in less than 24 hours and I fly out tomorrow eve via Gatwick on my way to join the team at the launch point in Las Palmas just off the Moroccan coast. You can follow the crossing via the website http://www.woodvale-challenge.com/ and more specifically on this challenge http://www.woodvale-works.com/
I will be doing my best to post while underway when possible.
Target is to depart this Sunday Jan 23rd for the 2550 mile journey which is expected to take around 30 days. The adventure continues!!! Watch this space!
On another note, I finished the theory part of my YachtMaster course today and the instructor was kind enough to allow me to delay the on-the-water practicum until after my return in just over a month (Thanks Phil!).
So much to do and so little time!
Over and out!
Paine
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Back in School
Good morning!
Another beautiful day here in paradise. Cool breeze, warm sun rising in the east.
Today begins day 4 of the YachtMaster theory course and my mind is abuzz with dayshapes and buoyage, light patterns, tides, streams, rules of the road, regional differences in colregs, zoinks! Hours spent on the charts plotting and accounting for secondary ports in reference to standard ports, heights of tides, ranges, fixes, estimated positions and it is chock a block but making square sense. All very exciting to be reviewing and refreshing my knowledge base as well as learning new concepts. The grey matter is working. Today and tomorrow left for theory to be followed by a day of assessment before jumping onto a boat for the practical application of all this wonderful knowledge with a view of keeping the boat afloat.
Capuccino is just about done with class to begin shortly. The belly is full and ready to go, now time to fill the brain!
Going to play squash for the first time this evening. What's all the buzz about!? Will report back tomorrow.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Another beautiful day here in paradise. Cool breeze, warm sun rising in the east.
Today begins day 4 of the YachtMaster theory course and my mind is abuzz with dayshapes and buoyage, light patterns, tides, streams, rules of the road, regional differences in colregs, zoinks! Hours spent on the charts plotting and accounting for secondary ports in reference to standard ports, heights of tides, ranges, fixes, estimated positions and it is chock a block but making square sense. All very exciting to be reviewing and refreshing my knowledge base as well as learning new concepts. The grey matter is working. Today and tomorrow left for theory to be followed by a day of assessment before jumping onto a boat for the practical application of all this wonderful knowledge with a view of keeping the boat afloat.
Capuccino is just about done with class to begin shortly. The belly is full and ready to go, now time to fill the brain!
Going to play squash for the first time this evening. What's all the buzz about!? Will report back tomorrow.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Saturday, January 15, 2011
10 as One - '92V bleeds Green
The following is an ode to the '92V; Director, Consultant, Pastor, Professor, IT Guru, Consultant, Engineer, Capitalist and RE Mogul:
10 as One
Brethren stoic, brethren staid
Tis of each of you than I am made
Greater than sum of parts
We stand together, Kings apart
Miracles are, and touch devine
Magic lives through space and time
Not as 4s or eights, our victories won
Our glory borne from 10 as One
Then as now, tenacious grip
Sweat from brow, our hands blood drip
Pace and rhythm, determined mind
pushing thresholds to others blind
Driving flesh, crescendo rhythm,
Spirit, body, near undone
Soul burst forth, burning sun.
Of each of you
We are One.
JDPaine
Antigua - Jan 15, 2011
10 as One
Brethren stoic, brethren staid
Tis of each of you than I am made
Greater than sum of parts
We stand together, Kings apart
Miracles are, and touch devine
Magic lives through space and time
Not as 4s or eights, our victories won
Our glory borne from 10 as One
Then as now, tenacious grip
Sweat from brow, our hands blood drip
Pace and rhythm, determined mind
pushing thresholds to others blind
Driving flesh, crescendo rhythm,
Spirit, body, near undone
Soul burst forth, burning sun.
Of each of you
We are One.
JDPaine
Antigua - Jan 15, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Peace
Peace is absence as much as it is being present.
In the absence of craziness and forces pulling me in every direction I am at peace. Perhaps this is what normal feels like.
I am certain that in our modern age, in western developed society, we live in a literally "insane" world. Many of my own trials and tribulations are borne of sensory overload and unhealthy living conditions, too crowded, too noisy, too busy, at least for me. I have struggled for years between the legacy of a world-class education and its attendant expectations, and leading a simple life that is fulfilling and wholesome. Ultimately, it comes down to the individual and personal choice.
At present I live a simple daily existence; I rise with the sun, prepare my meal of cereal or porridge, wash my clothes by hand and hang to dry, stop along the road buy and eat fresh fruit on the way to the docks in search of work. Fulfilling in its simplicity. I have time to read and to write, enjoy friendships and swim in the ocean and soak up the sun. I am fully living "the present". I am calm, at peace and free of worries and troubles that plagued my days of employment for employment sake. I have rediscovered, nay always knew that an office is not the environment for me. Who was I proving my capabilities to, and to what end? Just because I can do it doesn't mean I should, especially when it means the sacrifice of my soul. Hindsight and a bit of perspective have made this clear to me. Better late than never.
I have always sought high intensity experience, fueled by an above average mind and natural gifts that permit me to excel at a broad and varied range of endeavors. Some of these exploits, however, have not always been in my best interest. Again, perspective and a willingness to change. Experience and time. It is mine to channel my energies into creative and worthwhile pursuits. Today, that is my goal.
Over the past year I have cleared my mind and indeed my soul, found friends and rediscovered brotherhood, been inspired and inspired, and tapped back into a depth of spirit left to slumber some years ago. I take this clarity with me daily, with purpose and faith, into the madness and confusion, as my aide and guide, as my touchstone of serenity.
Referencing Desiderata, posted the other day, as I "take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth" my life takes on new form. I have little idea where I'll be or what I'll be doing a year from now, for this is part of the great mystery, and one that I embrace. We are educated from a young age to discern, judge, plan, execute, achieve and conquer yet I don't recall any instruction on what it means to "be" in a simple, unadultered manner, as a primary directive. For this instruction I travel geographies and cultures, in search of alternate interpretations of existence and fulfillment, beyond the puritan ethic. Some of the economically poorest cultures I experience prove to be richest in friendships, love and community.
This is an exploration of my own definitions and ideas of what it means to live a happy and fulfilling life.
At present I read Jack London's - The Cruise of the Snark, A Pacific Voyage, and am struck by simplicity of insight; "Life that lives is life successful". And so I continue about living my life.
I begin Yacht Master Offshore instruction this weekend! A delicious combination of theory and sailing mixed with Mother Nature's wind and seas! Can't wait!!
Great big hugs!
Jonathan
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
The Newt
Observance from the veranda over-looking Falmouth Harbour ealry one morning as creatures great and small stirred to break the fast.
The Newt
Flutter, dive, white flash, plunge
Foraged prey, rise again.
Instinct unleashed flailing wild
Earthen mother, wizened smile
Pulsing cease, death renewed
Life unfurled to nourish new
JDPaine
Dec 28th 2010 - Antigua WI
The Newt
Flutter, dive, white flash, plunge
Foraged prey, rise again.
Instinct unleashed flailing wild
Earthen mother, wizened smile
Pulsing cease, death renewed
Life unfurled to nourish new
JDPaine
Dec 28th 2010 - Antigua WI
Monday, January 10, 2011
DESIDERATA
Hiya All,
Well, I've returned to Antigua after a week away in Trinidad to attend the STCW course, and passed! Now officially certified in Basic Safety Training, and confident to put out just about any fire.
Upon my return the following prose was hanging in the upper right hand corner of the mirror in my room. A pleasant reminder of the nicer things in life. No doubt many of you will have already seen this at some point but for those of you who haven't, enjoy!
In the next couple of days I'll be posting some highlights on my trip to Antigua including local music with improvised instruments and some wonderful sounds from Antiguan guitar pans (steel drums). Check back soon!
JDPaine
DESIDERATA
Go placidly amid the noise & haste, & remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly & clearly; and listen to others, even the dull & ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud & aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain & bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity & disenchantment it is perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less that the trees and stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors & aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
(found in old Saint Paul’s Church, Baltimore; dated 1692)
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Fw: Race Day!
At home on the foredeck! Passing the jib is fast and furious work! Note the discontent painted across my face...
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Life in the Caribbean - Further Preparations for life at Sea!
Hi All from the warm and sunny shores of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad!
Apologies for the conspicuous lack of recent activity on my part, posting that is, I assure you I have been busy! I've been crafting content to share however shortly after arriving in Antigua the WiFi function on my BlackBerry seems to have to have gone on the fritz and as such I haven't been able to post from any one of the multitude of hotspots around English or Falmouth Harbour in Antigua, home to the most ostentatious display of 'mine is bigger than yours' yachting and a most indulgent concentration of superfluous wealth, including the largest sailboat in the world, Mirabella 5, (289 feet!!) and the previous record holder, Maltese Falcon. Perhaps I am just jealous...nah. Have a look...
In any case, there is a solution on the way! The good folks, Maggie and Al, who provided passage from Nevis Island to Antigua aboard their Stevens Custom 53, akin to a floating motor coach, returned to Yarmouth Maine for the holidays and have been kind enough to bring a netbook I ordered from Amazon back with them when they return to Antigua on Jan 8th. I'll be back in the flow.
During the Antigua-bound transit we were blessed with the appearance of a pod of dolphins frolicking in and about our bow wave. For your viewing pleasure...
You may have noticed that I am writing from Trinidad. It became quickly apparent that upon arriving in foreign realms my US Coast Guard Captain's license carries little weight and as such I need to earn a few credentials to qualify for life on the sea in international waters. So I set about and found the course offered at University of Trinidad and Tobago and hoped on a flight south on New Year's Day and and started the course here today (rest assured I would have preferred to transit by boat however time was short and most boats at this time are heading north from Trinidad for the season).
The course topics are; Personal Survival Techniques, Personal and Social Responsibility, First Aid, and the practical exercise I am really looking forward to, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting. We'll get to use air tanks and don protective suits and actually get to fight fires! Very cool!
After I return to Antigua this weekend with STCW certificate in hand I will enroll in the MCA (Marine and CoastGuard Agency - a UK governing body) sanctioned Yacht Master Offshore course to 1) refresh and update my high-seas knowledge base and 2) further prepare me for a life at sea at the helm of what I hope to be a 20 to 40 meter classic style sailing yacht replete with teak decking and brass/stainless fittings. Oh the beauty of the boats here...sheer joy!
In the meantime I have been keeping somewhat gainfully employed with day work prepping boats for charter; general cleaning, organization and repair. I love it all. Being on boats in any capacity is truly wonderful.
Friday past I was invited to sail in preparation for a race on Saturday aboard a Dynamique 62, a French build and fun, sporty racer. I found myself at home on the foredeck bobbing about in 6-8 ft swell and catching seaspray while pulling the jib around the stays'l (stay sail) stay through tacks and gybes! It all happens so quickly and with such force. What a rush!
I am inspired by what I see and experience on a daily basis across a myriad of subjects. I do hope you'll forgive the hiatus. Back with more soon!
Fair winds and following seas...
JDPaine
Apologies for the conspicuous lack of recent activity on my part, posting that is, I assure you I have been busy! I've been crafting content to share however shortly after arriving in Antigua the WiFi function on my BlackBerry seems to have to have gone on the fritz and as such I haven't been able to post from any one of the multitude of hotspots around English or Falmouth Harbour in Antigua, home to the most ostentatious display of 'mine is bigger than yours' yachting and a most indulgent concentration of superfluous wealth, including the largest sailboat in the world, Mirabella 5, (289 feet!!) and the previous record holder, Maltese Falcon. Perhaps I am just jealous...nah. Have a look...
In any case, there is a solution on the way! The good folks, Maggie and Al, who provided passage from Nevis Island to Antigua aboard their Stevens Custom 53, akin to a floating motor coach, returned to Yarmouth Maine for the holidays and have been kind enough to bring a netbook I ordered from Amazon back with them when they return to Antigua on Jan 8th. I'll be back in the flow.
During the Antigua-bound transit we were blessed with the appearance of a pod of dolphins frolicking in and about our bow wave. For your viewing pleasure...
You may have noticed that I am writing from Trinidad. It became quickly apparent that upon arriving in foreign realms my US Coast Guard Captain's license carries little weight and as such I need to earn a few credentials to qualify for life on the sea in international waters. So I set about and found the course offered at University of Trinidad and Tobago and hoped on a flight south on New Year's Day and and started the course here today (rest assured I would have preferred to transit by boat however time was short and most boats at this time are heading north from Trinidad for the season).
The course topics are; Personal Survival Techniques, Personal and Social Responsibility, First Aid, and the practical exercise I am really looking forward to, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting. We'll get to use air tanks and don protective suits and actually get to fight fires! Very cool!
After I return to Antigua this weekend with STCW certificate in hand I will enroll in the MCA (Marine and CoastGuard Agency - a UK governing body) sanctioned Yacht Master Offshore course to 1) refresh and update my high-seas knowledge base and 2) further prepare me for a life at sea at the helm of what I hope to be a 20 to 40 meter classic style sailing yacht replete with teak decking and brass/stainless fittings. Oh the beauty of the boats here...sheer joy!
In the meantime I have been keeping somewhat gainfully employed with day work prepping boats for charter; general cleaning, organization and repair. I love it all. Being on boats in any capacity is truly wonderful.
Friday past I was invited to sail in preparation for a race on Saturday aboard a Dynamique 62, a French build and fun, sporty racer. I found myself at home on the foredeck bobbing about in 6-8 ft swell and catching seaspray while pulling the jib around the stays'l (stay sail) stay through tacks and gybes! It all happens so quickly and with such force. What a rush!
I am inspired by what I see and experience on a daily basis across a myriad of subjects. I do hope you'll forgive the hiatus. Back with more soon!
Fair winds and following seas...
JDPaine
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